Jagan announces schedule for AP poll campaigns, downplays TDP-Jana Sena coalition

Amaravati: Sounding the poll bugle for the 2024 elections on Monday, chief minister Jagan Mohan Reddy declared that the TDP-Jana Sena alliance in Andhra Pradesh will not adversely impact the performance of YSRCP.

Addressing a gathering of YSRCP functionaries, the CM infused the party ranks with unparalleled josh, determination, and enthusiasm by speaking about the various advantages the ruling party has over the opposition.

“While the TDP has no achievements to its credit, the Jana Sena doesn’t have even flag-bearers or candidates to contest in all 175 constituencies,” he said, adding that their electoral alliance makes no difference to the YSRCP. Jana Sena president Pawan Kalyan also took a share of the corruption done by TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu, and is a partner in the economic offences committed by the former chief minister, he said.

‘No political vendetta’

Affirming that there was no political vendetta behind the arrest of Naidu in the AP Skill Development Corporation scam, he said that the arrest took place based on proper investigation and the evidence collected in accordance with the law. “Naidu’s arrest took place while I was away in London,” he clarified.

When in power, Naidu did not allow the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the state due to the fear of being investigated over his economic offences, said CM Jagan, adding that the TDP-friendly media has been churning out false stories to create an impression that Naidu’s arrest took place due to a political vendetta.

YSRCP election strategy

The CM revealed the details of the party’s upcoming election campaigns.

- Jagananna Aarogya Suraksha (September 30 - November 1)

A campaign aimed at bringing free healthcare for the underprivileged to their doorsteps.

- Why AP needs Jagan (November 1 - December 10)

A campaign to educate every household about the government’s achievements and development works in their Mandal, Assembly Constituency, and District.

- YSRCP bus yatra (October 25 - December 31)

A campaign led by party leaders from all sections including SC, ST, BC, and minority communities to engage with all sections of the society.

- Aadudham Andhra (December 11 - January 15)

A campaign to encourage Andhra’s youth to participate in sports activities and support them in achieving success at the national and international levels.

In addition, the CM also said that in January the government had made plans to distribute funds under three welfare schemes:

1) Enhanced Social Security Pensions: Welfare pensions will increase to Rs 3,000 from January 1, 2024.

2) YSR Cheyutha: Implementation of YSR Cheyutha will commence from January 10 to 20, with the disbursement of Rs 19,000 crores.

3) YSR Aasara: Rs 26,000 crore will be disbursed through the Aasara program from January 20 to 30.